Cattle Breeds Research Articles

Investigation on allele and genotype frequencies of ADH1C and FASN genes in three cattle breeds in Türkiye

Improvement of selection programs based on candidate genes for meat yield and quality is an efficient approach for overcoming the current dilemma between the increasing human population and the decreasing population size of farm animals. Being known to be associated with meat yield and quality in cattle, ADH1C and FASN genes were investigated across three cattle breeds reared in Türkiye namely East Anatolian Red (EAR), South Anatolian Yellow (SAY), and Holstein Friesian (HF) in this study. For this purpose, 37 animals per breed were genotyped via the allele-specific polymerase chain reaction (AS-PCR) technique. The distribution of allele frequencies significantly differed between HF and native Turkish breeds. C allele frequency ranged from 0.014 (EAR) to 0.311 (HF) while T allele frequency varied between 0.689 (HF) and 0.986 (EAR) in ADH1C polymorphism. C and T allele frequencies were calculated as 0.068 and 0.932, respectively, in SAY breed. G was the most frequent allele across all cattle breeds regarding FASN gene variation. The lowest (0.014) and highest (0.365) A allele frequency were detected in EAR and HF breeds, respectively, while G allele frequency ranged from 0.027 (EAR) to 0.635 (HF). Compared to native breeds, HF had a higher heterozygosity. A large part of the total genetic variation (67%) was attributed to differences within individuals. Variations of ADH1C and FASN genes turned out to be informative enough to distinguish native Anatolian cattle breeds from HF via genetic distance-based phylogenetic analysis. No animals with superior genotypes for the ADH1C and FASN genes were observed in EAR, while two animals with AA genotype were detected for the FASN gene in the SAY breed. These findings imply that for the time being, these genes do not seem efficient for marker-assisted selection (MAS) studies while desired genotypes may be developed via suitable mating programs for long-term production. Further studies may focus on screening native Turkish cattle breeds regarding other meat yield and quality-related traits to develop selection strategies.

LCORL and STC2 Variants Increase Body Size and Growth Rate in Cattle and Other Animals.

Natural variants can significantly improve growth traits in livestock and serve as safe targets for gene editing, thus being applied in animal molecular designed breeding. However, such safe and large-effect mutations are severely lacking. Using ancestral recombination graphs, we investigated recent selection signatures in beef cattle breeds, pinpointing sweep-driving variants in the LCORL and STC2 loci with notable effects on body size and growth rate. The ACT-to-A frameshift mutation in LCORL occurs mainly in central-European cattle, and stimulates growth. Remarkably, convergent truncating mutations were also found in commercial breeds of sheep, goats, pigs, horses, dogs, rabbits, and chickens. In STC2 gene, we identified a missense mutation (A60P) located within the conserved region across vertebrates. We validated the two natural mutations in gene-edited mouse models, where both variants in homozygous carriers significantly increase the average weight by 11%. Our findings provide insights into a seemingly recurring gene target of body size enhancing truncating mutations across domesticated species, and offer valuable targets for gene editing-based breeding in animals.

Archaeozoological materials from the Late Medieval settlement of Yabalakly-1 (Southern Urals)

Here, we present the results of the study of osteological materials from the settlement of the Chiyalik Culture of the Golden Horde period. The site is located in the forest-steppe zone of the Cis-Ural region, in the Dema River basin, and it is dated to the end of the first — second half of the 14th c. (1330/50–90). The analysis of the taxo-nomic affiliation of bone remains showed that cattle breeding predominated in the economy of the ancient popula-tion of the Yabalakaly-1 village. The species included three taxa — large and small cattle, and horse, with the prevalence of the former. A camel was found, which may indicate the existence of caravan trade. The analysis of the composition of skeletal sections suggests that animal carcasses were most likely butchered directly at the village. Wild mammal species are only represented by single bones. Game and fish constituted a small part of the population's diet. In general, the characteristics of the economy of the Yabalakly-1 community correspond to those of other sites of the Chiyalik Culture. The absence of pig bones is consistent with archaeological data on Muslim burials common in the Chiyalik Culture. The discovery of domestic chicken bones casts doubts on the perception of this population as semi-nomadic, however, more accurate conclusions will be drawn after the analy-sis of the slaughter season for the animals.

Развитие отечественного молочного скотоводства в 2025-2030 годы

The research paper presents the results of studying the real dynamics of the functioning of the most systemically important branch of animal husbandry-dairy cattle breeding. It indicates the shortcomings that are characteristic of modern industry management and ways to eliminate them. Among the shortcomings, the following types are noted: the lack of industry in many agricultural organizations, farms of the population, a steady decline in the number of cows, the period of productive use of cows, a high percentage of culling of broodstock, a high price of repair young animals, the procedure for poorly documented subsidization of dairy cattle breeding. The main disadvantage of the industry is that it has not solved the doctrinal tasks. From our point of view, the disadvantages can be attributed to the statement of some experts who consider the state of the industry to be stable and balanced. The authors took into account the shortcomings when making a forecast for the further development of the industry, which was based on an extensive-intensive method, which provides for the growth of quantitative factors and an increase in quality resources. When calculating the number of cows in the future, the principle was applied, which assumes that the rate of recovery of herd size is inversely proportional to the rate of cows leaving the herd. The size of cow productivity was determined by the inertia method. Thus, quantitative and qualitative characteristics of the main factors influencing the gross milk yield were found, which will make it possible to realize the goal set for 2030-full self-sufficiency of the country with milk. According to the forecast, the herd of cows will increase by 800 thousand heads, the average annual growth will be 160 thousand heads, this is based on the region-1777 cows. Dairy productivity of cows will increase by 773 kg and reach the level of 4811 kg. As a result of these changes, the volume of cow's milk production will increase to 48 million tons, which is 14.6 million tons more than in 2024. And taking into account the consumption of cow's milk for washing calves (1 million tons) and milk produced in other livestock sectors (1 million tons), the volume of consumption per person per year will reach 314 kg. This is 96.6% of the total self-sufficiency of the Russian population in milk. Concluding this point of the article, it is impossible not to note the huge role of the breed structure of the herd of cows, which indicates the right path to increase productivity, production volume and the level of self-sufficiency in milk in Russia. But this is a topic for a future article.

Optimal Mating Combination for Directed Breeding in a Racially Composite Cattle Population.

Evaluating optimal mating combinations in large populations poses significant combinatorial and computational challenges. To address this, we propose a method to optimise mating combinations in composite cattle populations, incorporating heterosis and genetic variability. Leveraging integer linear programming, our approach maximises expected offspring merit, outperforming random mating systems. A robust mathematical model and specialised software were developed to implement the method, demonstrating its effectiveness on a real dataset. Notably, results reveal a 14.8% superiority over random mating averages and a 12.4% advantage over random mating maxima. The method's flexibility and adaptability enable constraint inclusion and application to diverse species and genomic data, making it an indispensable tool for enhancing mating selection efficiency and effectiveness in composite beef cattle breeding programmes.

Seroprevalence and Risk Factors of Crimean–Congo Hemorrhagic Fever Exposure in Wild and Domestic Animals in Benin

Crimean–Congo hemorrhagic fever (CCHF) is a tick-borne zoonotic viral disease prevalent in Africa. While infection is asymptomatic in animals, it can cause severe illness with hemorrhagic manifestations and high mortality rates in humans. This study aimed to determine the seroprevalence and potential risk factors of CCHF in wild (rodents, birds) and domestic (cattle, horses) animals in Benin. A cross-sectional study was carried out from 2022 to 2024 with the assistance of cattle breeders, hunters, farmers and bushmeat sellers in 15 districts found in three agroecological zones in the country. A total of 366 serum samples were analyzed, comprising 254 collected from wild animals and 112 from domestic animals. Among the wild animals tested, 1.18% (95% CI: 0.31–3.70; n = 3) were seropositive for antibodies against CCHF virus (CCHFV). The seroprevalence rates were 3.7% (95% CI: 0.19–20.89) in squirrels, 5.88% (95% CI: 0.31–30.76) in hares and 1.19% (95% CI: 0.06–7.38) in giant rats. In domestic animals, anti-CCHFV antibodies were detected in 38 of the 112 samples, resulting in an overall seroprevalence of 33.93% (95% CI: 25.42–43.56). Specifically, antibodies were identified in 34 out of 81 cattle (41.98%, 95% CI: 31.26–53.46) and 4 out of 24 horses (16.67%, 95% CI: 5.48–38.19). No positive samples were reported in pigeons. This study provides the first seroprevalence data on CCHF in wild and domestic animals in Benin. It highlights the risk and epidemiological dynamics of the disease and underscores the need for further investigations into tick vectors and human populations.

Identification and differential expression analysis of microRNAs in the liver and spleen tissues of Yunnan Zebu and Holstein cattle.

Extensive research has shown that miRNAs play a crucial role in regulating biological processes within organisms. This study analyzed miRNAs differentially expressed and potentially associated with immune function and tissue-specific expression in Yunnan Zebu and Holstein cattle. To achieve this, 20 liver and spleen tissue samples from the two cattle breeds were collected for high-throughput miRNA sequencing, with the liver tissue as a reference. The findings revealed that bta-miR-122 and bta-miR-143 are the most abundantly expressed known miRNAs in the liver and spleen tissues of Yunnan Zebu and Holstein cattle, respectively. Additionally, AC_000181.1_27195 and AC_000168.1_14386 emerged as the most highly expressed novel miRNAs in these tissues, exhibiting significant homology with human hsa-miR-3591-3p and hsa-miR-126-3p, respectively. Six differentially expressed miRNAs were selected for validation using stem-loop RT-qPCR, and the results were largely consistent with the high-throughput sequencing data. Functional enrichment analysis of the target genes of these known miRNAs revealed their association with critical metabolic and immune-related pathways in cattle, such as the insulin pathway, mTOR signaling, IFN-γ pathway, and signaling mechanisms mediated by IL5 and IL3. These results enriched the miRNA database for liver and spleen tissues of Yunnan Zebu and Holstein cattle.

Whole genome insights into genetic diversity, introgression, and adaptation of Yunnan indigenous cattle of Southwestern China

BackgroundYunnan Province, located in Southwestern China, the intricate geography, variable climate, and abundant vegetation of the region have collectively contributed to shaping the distinctive germplasm characteristics observed in Yunnan indigenous cattle through prolonged domestication. The different breeds of Yunnan cattle exhibit distinct advantageous characteristics and traits, which are an important source of genetic variation because they might carry alleles that enable them to adapt to local environment and tough feeding conditions. However, a comprehensive genomic landscape of genetic resources has yet to be delineated.ResultsHerein, we employed 140 whole-genome sequencing data from Yunnan indigenous cattle across eight breeds to elucidate their genetic diversity and population structure. Utilizing both uniparental and biparental markers, we elucidated the intricate genetic composition of Yunnan indigenous cattle, which is closely correlated with the geographic environment. A predominant East Asian indicine ancestry which gradually diminishes towards the north. The analysis revealed a high genetic diversity among populations and a low-to-moderate inbreeding coefficient, underscoring the rich genetic reservoir of Yunnan cattle breeds. Additionally, gene flow between Yunnan indicine and wild Bos species in and around Yunnan was verified, highlighting localized introgression from Yunnan Gayal as a critical factor in the successful adaptation of Yunnan indicine cattle to the local hot and humid environments.ConclusionsOur findings established the SNPs database for facilitating resource conservation and selective breeding. Moreover, these valuable insights into the genomic diversity and adaptive history of Yunnan indigenous cattle breeds contribute significantly to our understanding of their evolutionary dynamics and offer a foundation for future genetic improvement and conservation strategies.

ТЕНДЕНЦИИ В РАЗВИТИИ МОЛОЧНОГО СКОТОВОДСТВА ЛЕНИНГРАДСКОЙ ОБЛАСТИ

This article examines the current situation in the dairy cattle industry for 2019-2024 in our country as a whole and in the Leningrad Region in particular. Key potential threats demonstrated by the industry were identified, such as a decrease in the number of cattle and an increase in the cost of milk. These trends can be traced both at the federal and regional levels. To restore and develop the dairy cattle industry, the state made decisions that were reflected in financial incentive measures for enterprises. The measures were implemented in various areas, at the regional and federal levels, and brought their results, for example, in terms of cow productivity and milk yield. In general, it was revealed that the Leningrad Region, despite the fact that it already occupies a leading position in the dairy cattle breeding industry, has enormous potential. The development of the industry is moving towards the creation of enterprises with a full production cycle. Nevertheless, for the further development of the industry, it is necessary to maintain the trend of expanding government support, as this will help reduce threats to the national economic security of the country.

Genetic distribution of polymorphisms in the shadow of prion protein (SPRN) gene in Jeju black cattle.

Bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder in cattle that poses risks to public health and has economic consequences. The shadow of prion protein encoded by the shadow of prion protein (SPRN) gene affects prion disease progression. A 12-base-pair indel polymorphism in the SPRN gene has been implicated in BSE susceptibility in Polish cattle. Building upon our previous research, we aimed to investigate the SPRN gene polymorphisms in Jeju black cattle - a Korean native breed with distinct genetic features and compared them with those in Hanwoo and Korean Holstein. Our findings reveal that the Jeju black cattle SPRN gene, with only two synonymous single nucleotide polymorphisms, has lower genetic diversity than that in Hanwoo and Korean Holstein. Moreover, we contrasted the distribution of c.199_210delGCCGCGGCGGGG (67_70delAAAG) polymorphisms in the SPRN gene between BSE-infected Polish cattle and Korean cattle to assess BSE susceptibility. The results suggest that Jeju black and Korean Holstein demonstrate a higher genetic potential for BSE resistance compared to the Hanwoo breed. To the best of our knowledge, this study provides the first report of the SPRN gene in Jeju black cattle, along with a comparative analysis of SPRN gene polymorphisms across three Korean cattle breeds.

Effects of Drinking Water Quality Parameters on Egyptian Cattle Farm Performance Indicators.

In both beef and dairy farming, the water quality (WQ) is of utmost importance, as it can significantly influence various cattle performance indicators (PIs). This study, conducted in Egyptian cattle farms experiencing emerging epidemics, aimed to scrutinize the impact of WQ on PIs. A comprehensive survey, involving 132 farms, was carried out using a questionnaire to identify hygiene-related risk factors (HRFs) that affect PIs. In parallel, 132 water samples were meticulously collected, subjected to analysis, and statistically evaluated to establish correlations between WQ parameters and PIs. Depending on the studied parameter (pH, total dissolved solids [TDS], hardness, chloride, nitrate, sulphate, total colony count [TCC] and total coliform count [TCFC]), the permissible limits were exceeded in a notable percentage of the water samples (from 13% to 86.3%). These parameters showed a significant correlation (ρ=0.30-0.64) with feed conversion ratio (FCR) in the case of beef farming, the lowest being for pH (ρ=0.23). Similarly, significant correlations (ρ=0.34-0.69) were found with dairy-fed efficiency, apart from pH, which showed no correlation (ρ=0). Furthermore, specific WQ parameters statistically emerged as predictors for different PIs. High nitrate was the most influential predictor across all beef and dairy PIs, followed by TDS, hardness, sulphate and microbial count. HRFs such as housing system, bedding type, water source, water tank and pipe type, drinker lining, herd size and cattle breed, demonstrated weak to moderate significant correlation with PIs. To conclude, WQ exerts a considerable impact on cattle PIs with the potential influence of on-farm HRFs. As a result, it is imperative to consider WQ when formulating rations, implementing alternative hygienic practices, and selecting appropriate water treatment methods for cattle farming.

A review of sustainable cattle genetic improvement in the Peruvian Highlands.

A review of sustainable cattle genetic improvement in the Peruvian Highlands.

Multiple omics analysis reveals the regulation of SIRT4 on lipid deposition and metabolism during the differentiation of bovine preadipocytes.

Multiple omics analysis reveals the regulation of SIRT4 on lipid deposition and metabolism during the differentiation of bovine preadipocytes.

OPA1 deficiency induces mitophagy through PINK1/Parkin pathway during bovine oocytes maturation

OPA1 deficiency induces mitophagy through PINK1/Parkin pathway during bovine oocytes maturation

Frequency of distribution and relationship of polymorphism of milk proteins in Holstein bulls with the productivity of their mothers and assessment of daughters

The kappa-casein and beta-casein genes control milk yield, quality of milk and dairy products, therefore they represent important breeding criteria for dairy cattle breeds. The frequency of occurrence of different kappa- and beta-casein genotypes was studied in 68 Holstein bulls of imported and domestic breeding owned by Kirovplem JSC of the Kirov region, data on the milk productivity of their mothers and the results of the evaluation of their daughters were analyzed. It was found that among the analyzed bulls for kappa casein, the AA genotype prevailed - 50.0 % of producers. The AB and BB genotypes were found in 30.9 and 19.1 % of bulls, respectively. The highest productivity according to yield, fat content and protein content in milk (14,573 kg, 4.39 and 3.47 %, respectively) was obtained from mothers of bulls with the AB genotype, while their superiority in milk yield and protein content was statistically significant compared to mothers of bulls with the AA genotype. Relative to their peers, the daughters of bulls with the AB genotype were also more productive, their weight gain was 720 kg, 0.21 %, 0.12 %, which was significantly higher in fat and protein content in milk compared to the AA genotype. Beta-casein was dominated by bulls with the A1A2 genotype (51.5 %). There were fewer producers with the A1A1 and A2A2 genotypes, respectively – 27.9 and 20.6 %. The highest milk yield was found in mothers of bulls with the beta-casein A2A2 genotype – 14482 kg. Significantly higher fat content – 4.49 % in mothers of bulls with the A1A2 genotype. Mothers of bulls with casein A1A1 and A1A2 also have significantly higher milk protein content (3.43 and 3.41 %). A comparison of daughters with their peers showed that the greatest increase in milk yield was given to daughters from bulls with genotypes A2A2 – 745 kg and A1A2 – 717 kg, which was statistically significant, in mass fraction of fat – daughters of bulls with genotype A1A2 – 0.17 %, and in protein – with genotype A2A2 – 0.11 %. To increase milk productivity and improve the quality of milk in the average herd, the number of animals from bulls with these kappa- and beta-casein genotypes should be increased.

Changes in the relationship between an endangered cattle breed and its mainstream sister breed over time

Changes in the relationship between an endangered cattle breed and its mainstream sister breed over time

Genome-wide scan for selection signatures reveals novel insights into the adaptive capacity characteristics in three Chinese cattle breeds

BackgroundCattle have evolved genetic adaptations to a diverse range of agroecological zones, such as plateaus and arid zones. However, little is known about its genetic basis of adaptation to harsh environments within a short period of time after domestication. Here, we analyzed whole-genome sequence data from three indigenous cattle breeds (Anxi, Qaidam and Zhangmu) in northwest China and five worldwide cattle breeds (Angus, Holstein, Jersey, Gir and N’Dama) to explore their genetic composition and identify selective sweeps in the Chinese cattle breeds.ResultsAnalyses of phylogenetic and population structure revealed that three indigenous cattle breeds share genomic components from Bos taurus and Bos indicus. A novel set of candidate genes was identified through comparative genomic analyses of cattle from contrasting environments based on SNP and copy number variation (CNV) data. These candidate genes are potentially associated with adaptive phenotypes, including high-altitude adaptability (e.g., ANGPT1, PPARGC1A, RORA), cold climate adaptation (e.g., TSHR, PRKG, OXCT1), and dryland adaptation (e.g., PLEKHA7, NFATC1, PLCB1).ConclusionsThis study unravels the unique adaptive diversity of three Chinese indigenous cattle breeds, providing a valuable resource for future research on sustainable livestock breeding strategies to response to climate change.

Financial modelling of meat cattle breeding in Kazakhstan based on a business process map

The study aimed to develop a standardized map of business processes as a basis for creating a production program for livestock activities and their financial modeling at enterprises in Northern Kazakhstan. General scientific and empirical research methods were applied, including logical and systematic approaches, generalization, analysis, synthesis, comparison, and calculations for data collection and processing. The specific conditions and practices of raising, fattening, and breeding livestock in Northern Kazakhstan were summarized and incorporated into the development of the business process map. The developed map reflects the components of the livestock system, detailing a sequence of tasks and procedures carried out using input resources. The research results make an original contribution by addressing key scientific and practical issues in livestock organization: the specific features of livestock business processes have been clarified; a standardized business process map has been developed; and a definition of business processes in livestock farming has been provided. The research results can be applied in the planning of production programs, financial modeling of business processes, and assessing their efficiency.

Analysis of the Frequency of the A1 and A2 Alleles in the Beta-Casein Gene and the A, B and E Alleles in the Kappa-Casein Gene in Local Cattle Breeds: Polish Red and Polish White-Backed

In view of the threat to local breeds resulting from intensive animal production, many studies are conducted in search of arguments confirming their importance in food production. In the case of milk production, not only is its quantity important, but its quality is as well, including its chemical composition. Particular focus has recently been placed on the casein proteins beta-casein (CSN2) and kappa-casein (CSN3), due to their potential impact on human health or on the suitability of milk for cheese production. The present study analysed the polymorphism of these proteins in 1777 cows belonging to two local cattle breeds, Polish Red and Polish White-Backed, using Illumina Infinium XT SNP technology on a EuroGenomics MD chip. The results indicate that the Polish White-Backed breed is predisposed to produce ‘A2 milk’, as the frequency of the CSN2 A2 allele in the population was 61.2%. The Polish Red breed was characterised by a higher frequency of the CNS3 B allele (35%), which according to extensive scientific literature is associated with better coagulation properties, and increased whey expulsion. The highest yield of milk and its constituents, confirmed at p ≤ 0.01, was obtained for Polish White-Backed cows with the A2A2 genotype in CSN2 and cows with the AA genotype in CSN3. In the Polish Red breed, no statistically significant differences were obtained between means for milk production traits.

POLYMORPHISMS WITHIN THE EXON 3 REGION OF IGF1 GENE OF TWO SAVANNAH MUTURU POPULATIONS IN NIGERIA USING RFLP MARKER

The IGF1 gene (insulin-like growth factor 1) is a candidate gene for marker-assisted selection strategies. This study was designed to identify and analyze various genetic diversity indices within exon 3 region of IGF1 gene in two Nigerian Savannah Muturu cattle populations using PCR-RFLP. 20 Muturu cattle were randomly sampled with 11 samples from Tarka in Benue State and 9 samples from Onueke in Ebonyi State. About 0.2ml of blood was collected from the coccygeal vein of the tail-head of the selected cattle with the use of 1-inch, 18-gauge classic needle and syringe. The blood samples obtained from each cattle was used for DNA extraction and amplification following standard procedures (www.whatman.com). The amplified DNA were digested with the use of SnaB1enzyme and the resultant DNA fragments subjected to Agarose Gel Electrophoresis. Two genotypes (CC and CT) were identified. The genotypic frequencies were 0.95 for CC and 0.05 for CT. A total of 10 Alleles were found with lengths ranging from 300 to 440 base pairs. The allelic frequency ranged from 0.025 to 0.200. The mean number of alleles (Na), mean number of effective alleles (Ne), mean information index (I), mean observed heterozygosity (Ho) and mean expected heterozygosity (He) were 5.000 ±1.000, 3.700 ±0.700, 1.416 ±0.202, 0.045 ±0.045 and 0.720 ±0.053 respectively. This study demonstrates low level of genetic diversity therefore, there is need for genetic improvement and conservation considering the endangered nature of the Muturu cattle breed.